Real Madrid were crowned champions of Europe for the 15th time at Wembley, securing a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final with second-half goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Jr.
The German side had several opportunities to score in the first half, including a shot by Niclas Fullkrug that hit the post. However, Real Madrid, with their unique affinity for this competition, showed their mettle after the interval. Toni Kroos, in his final game for the club, set up Carvajal’s header from a corner with 16 minutes left to play. England’s Jude Bellingham then assisted Vinicius Jr, who sealed the win for Real Madrid.
Fullkrug had a chance to create a dramatic finish with a powerful header, but it was ruled offside, effectively ending Dortmund’s hopes of a comeback.
For Carvajal, Kroos, Nacho, and Luka Modric, this victory marked their sixth Champions League title with Real Madrid. Manager Carlo Ancelotti celebrated his fifth win as a head coach, while 20-year-old Bellingham experienced his first taste of Champions League glory.
Bellingham: The Best Night of My Life
Jude Bellingham, speaking to TNT Sports, shared his joy:
“I’ve always dreamt of playing in these games. Days like this remind you why it’s all worth it. Seeing my mum and dad made it emotional. They’ve sacrificed so much for me, and nights like this make it all worthwhile. The best night of my life.”
How Real Madrid Became Champions Again
Despite facing long odds, Dortmund had a strong run to the final, defeating Atletico Madrid and Paris St-Germain along the way. However, missed opportunities in the first half proved costly. Real Madrid, on the other hand, made the most of their chances.
A series of pitch invaders briefly disrupted the match, but Dortmund quickly found their rhythm. Julian Brandt and Karim Adeyemi had early chances, and Fullkrug hit the post midway through the half. Real Madrid’s best moment in the first half came from a speculative effort by Vinicius Jr.
After the break, Real Madrid shifted gears. Thibaut Courtois made crucial saves, and Carvajal’s header broke the deadlock. Bellingham then set up Vinicius Jr for the second goal, ensuring Real Madrid’s victory.
Ancelotti: This Season Was 10/10
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s performance:
“This season has been 10 out of 10. My players have been spectacular. We had to manage Dortmund’s transitions better, and we succeeded.”
On Toni Kroos retiring: “He has finished at the very top. He is a legend in this club. All the Real Madrid fans are grateful for his contributions, both on and off the pitch.”
Terzic: Real Madrid’s Quality Is Incredible
Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic acknowledged Real Madrid’s superiority:
“The momentum turned, and you saw why they are champions. It was a very even game in the second half, but their quality made the difference. We have to learn from this experience.”
On Jadon Sancho’s future: “Jadon has been brilliant for us, especially in the last six months. He improves our game and brings joy to the team. We’re happy to have him, and we hope for more success in the future.”
Real Madrid’s latest triumph reinforces their status as the kings of European football, with an unbeaten campaign culminating in yet another Champions League title.
Credit: Sky Sports
